Sri Lanka Calls Up Replacement for Wanindu Hasaranga Following Departure of Two Players from Pakistan in T20I Tri-Series
Sri Lanka has made a significant addition to their T20I squad for the upcoming tri-series against Pakistan and Zimbabwe by including leg-spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth. Currently competing in the ACC Men’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 in Doha, Viyaskanth will head directly to Pakistan to join the national team. His inclusion comes as Wanindu Hasaranga continues to recover from a hamstring injury. Additionally, captain Charith Asalanka and fast bowler Asitha Fernando will miss the series due to illness, prompting Dasun Shanaka to take over as captain. The tournament, which begins on November 18, will serve as crucial preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Viyaskanth’s Inclusion in the Squad
Vijayakanth Viyaskanth’s selection for the T20I tri-series marks an important step for Sri Lanka as they prepare for the upcoming matches. The leg-spinner has been performing well with the Sri Lanka ‘A’ team in Doha, showcasing his skills in the Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament. His ability to spin the ball effectively could provide Sri Lanka with a strategic advantage in the series. The decision to include Viyaskanth comes as Wanindu Hasaranga is still recovering from a hamstring issue, which has sidelined him from the tournament. Sri Lanka Cricket’s official statement emphasized the need for Viyaskanth’s inclusion to bolster the team’s bowling attack.
Captaincy Changes and Team Adjustments
In a recent development, Sri Lanka Cricket announced that both captain Charith Asalanka and fast bowler Asitha Fernando will return home due to illness. This precautionary measure aims to ensure their proper recovery ahead of future commitments. As a result, Dasun Shanaka has been appointed as the new captain for the tri-series. Additionally, Pavan Rathnayake has been added to the squad to fill the gaps left by the departing players. The team is focused on maintaining its competitive edge despite these changes, as they prepare to face formidable opponents in Pakistan and Zimbabwe.
Security Concerns and Tournament Schedule
The tri-series comes amid heightened security concerns following a recent suicide bombing in Islamabad. Despite these challenges, Sri Lankan players have been instructed to remain in Pakistan for the ongoing tour. The Pakistan Cricket Board has revised the tournament schedule, moving the opening match between Pakistan and Zimbabwe to November 18, a day later than initially planned. This adjustment follows the postponement of two ODI matches against Sri Lanka, which were delayed due to requests from team members to return home after the security incident. The tournament will feature all seven T20I matches at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, culminating in the final on November 29.
Afghanistan’s Withdrawal and Zimbabwe’s Entry
Initially, Afghanistan was set to participate in the tri-series alongside Pakistan and Sri Lanka. However, they withdrew from the tournament following the tragic deaths of three local cricketers in Pakistani airstrikes in Paktika province. Zimbabwe has stepped in to replace Afghanistan, ensuring that the tournament proceeds with a competitive lineup. The tri-series will consist of each team playing four matches, with the top two teams advancing to the final. This tournament serves as a vital opportunity for all participating teams to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
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